The Solu Khumbu or Mt Everest region of Nepal offers some of the world’s best trekking and is home to numerous Himalayan giants including Mount Everest, Nuptse, Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Pumori. Snow and ice covered Himalayan peaks are your constant companions as you trek through lush green valleys between Sherpa villages, staying each night in mountain lodges.

Your adventure starts with one night in Kathmandu before you take the short flight to Lukla, where your trek begins with your first day’s trek to Phakding. Your journey then continues ever upwards via Namche Bazaar, Tengboche and Dingboche and Ghorak Shep to Everest Base Camp at 5364m.

Although the objective of this trek is Everest Base Camp and the dawn view of Everest from the summit of Kala Pattar (5545m), there are many other highlights; the charming hospitality of your Sherpa hosts, the terraced green fields around Lukla and Phakding, the Buddhist prayer ceremony at Tengboche Monastery, the camaraderie of meeting trekkers from around the world, and the ever-changing mountain views.

DAY 1: Arrive Kathmandu

We will meet you in Kathmandu and transfer you to your hotel in Kathmandu. Relax at your hotel, explore the bustling streets of Kathmandu and get ready for your trek.

Overnight: Kathmandu deluxe hotel

DAY 2: Flight to Lukla (2840m) and Trek to Phakding (2610m)

After a private transfer to the airport you will board the plane for a spectacular 30 minute flight to Lukla. Sit on the left hand side of the plane for the best views.

After a refreshing cup of tea in Lukla a three hour walk brings you to your first overnight lodge in the village of Phakding. An optional afternoon visit to a prayer ceremony at the local Buddhist monastery completes a perfect first day.

Walk: 2 - 3 Hours, 200m Descent

Overnight: Phakding Lodge

DAY 3: Phakding to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

The snow capped mountains tower around you as you criss-cross the valley bottom on suspension bridges. On your way to Namche Bazaar a final sustained climb brings the welcome sight of the village.

Walk: 5 - 6 Hours, 1000m ascent, 100m descent

Overnight: Namche Bazaar lodge

DAY 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatisation Day

Acclimatisation days are crucial for a successful trek to Everest Base Camp. Your guide will take you on a delightful walk to Hotel Everest View and the Sherpa Villages of Khumbu including Khumjung and Khunde. The afternoon is free to relax, shop or perhaps visit the famous bakery.

Walk: 4 - 5 Hours, 460m ascent/descent

Overnight: Namche Bazaar Lodge

DAY 5: Namche Bazaar to Tengboche (3860m)

As you continue to EBC high above the Dubh Kosi the views of Everest and Ama Dablam really start to open up. The walking is sublime and the views even better.

Tengboche is the largest monastery in Nepal occupying a high ridge with views in all directions. You should be able to attend a prayer ceremony in the evening or morning.

Walk: 4 - 5 Hours, 750m ascent, 350m descent

Overnight: Tengboche Lodge

DAY 6: Tengboche to Dingboche (4410m)

From Tengboche the trail continues through Rhododendron forests past Dewoche and Pangboche to Dingboche. Dingboche, a small Sherpa village is surrounded on all sides by towering Himalayan peaks including Pokalde, Ama Dablam and Tawoche.

Walk: 4 - 5 Hours, 550m ascent, 100m descent

Overnight: Dingboche lodge

DAY 7: Chhukung Valley Acclimatisation

To make sure you acclimatise effectively we enjoy a side trip to the Chhukung Valley and for those feeling strong an optional ascent of Chhukung Ri. (5546m) Chhukung offers tremendous views of the Lhotse and Ama Dablam Glaciers and Island Peak.

Walk: 3 - 4 Hours, 400m ascent/descent

Overnight: Dingboche lodge

DAY 8: Dingboche to Lobuche (4910m)

You can look forward to a great day of epic Himalayan scenery as you continue to past Dugla and the Everest Memorials to reach the Khumbu Glacier and then Lobuche.

The trail continues upwards to Ghorak Shep alongside the enormous Khumbu glacier. The views of Pumori are spectacular. Ghorak Shep consists of a few tea houses and has a real frontier feeling. After an early lunch we follow the Khumbu Glacier to Everest Base Camp at the base of the imposing Khumbu icefall. Whether occupied or not Everest base Camp is an inspiring place. After exploring and taking in the atmosphere you return to Ghorak Shep.

DAY 10: Climb Kala Pattar (5550m) and Descend to Pheriche (4270m)

A very early morning start for the climb to the summit of Kala Pattar will give you the best view of Everest and in the thin air you really do feel as if you could reach out and touch it. It is definitely a moment to treasure. You return to Ghorak Shep for breakfast and then begin your descent, reaching Pheriche that afternoon.

DAY 11: Pheriche to Tengboche (3860m)

As you continue to descend the air feels positively thick and you really do feel great. A lovely day of walking brings you Tengboche Monastery.

Walk: 2 - 3 Hours, 100m ascent, 500m descent

Overnight: Tengboche Lodge

DAY 12: Tengboche to Namche Bazaar (3440m)

You can look forward to a pleasant day of hiking as you descend to Phunki Thanga and then climb up to the ridge above Namche Bazaar. Alternatively you can choose to take a longer route via Khumjung.

Walk: 4 - 5 Hours, 750m descent, 350m ascent

Overnight: Namche Lodge

DAY 13: Namche Bazaar to Lukla (2840m)

It’s a long but thoroughly enjoyable walk from Namche Bazaar to Lukla. Take your time to take in the sights, sounds and smells of Sherpa village life on your last day of trekking in the Himalaya.

Walk: 5 - 7 Hours, 750m descent, 350m ascent

Overnight: Lukla Lodge

DAY 14: Flight to Kathmandu

The early morning is the best time for flying back to Kathmandu and after a short transfer to your hotel you can enjoy a day of rest and relaxation.

Overnight: Kathmandu deluxe hotel

DAY 15: Kathmandu Sightseeing

Kathmandu is a fascinating city bursting with energy. Your guide will take you on a journey exploring the classic sights such as Durbar Square, Swayambhunath and Patan as well as those hidden gems only the locals know. Your trip ends with a farewell dinner at a traditional Nepali restaurant.

Overnight: Kathmandu deluxe hotel

DAY 16: Depart Kathmandu

We will transfer you to the airport in plenty of time for your flight.

Additional nights and extensions

Our treks are tailor made for you so if you wish to add trekking days, extra days in Kathmandu or extensions you can do so. If you have extra time we would recommend adding an extra night in Kathmandu at the start of your trip to better recover from your flight, an extra night in Tengboche on the way up to aid acclimatisation and perhaps an extra night in Kathmandu at the end of your trip to see more of the city.

You may also like to consider extending your trip to visit Chitwan National Park or Pokhara.

Accommodation

In Kathmandu you will stay at either Hotel Annapurna, Hotel Yak & Yeti or Hotel Shanker. All of these are superior properties conveniently located for Kathmandu attractions.

Single Rooms and Solo Walkers

Single rooms are available on this tour, but a supplement is applicable. Unfortunately we are not able to offer this trip to solo walkers.

Hotel Yak & Yeti, Kathmandu

Kathmandu’s Hotel Yak and Yeti is one of Kathmandu’s iconic 5 star hotels. Set in lush gardens, only a 10 minute walk from Thamel, the hotel has 270 rooms, several restaurants, a spa and swimming pool. It is always a hive of activity with trekking parties and expeditions coming and going.

Annapurna Hotel, Kathmandu

The Annapurna Hotel sits in 5.5 acres of grounds in the centre of Kathmandu a 10 minute walk from Thamel, close to the Royal Palace. Built in 1965 it boasts comfortable modern rooms, a large pool, three restaurants and breakfast is served in the bright coffee shop overlooking the busy street.

Hotel Shanker, Kathmandu

Hotel Shanker is a four star heritage hotel, housed in a converted 19th century palace in the heart of Kathmandu. The hotel has a charming old world elegance, comfortable rooms, lovely gardens, a pool and restaurant.

Dwarika’s Hotel, Kathmandu

Dwarika’s is undoubtably Kathmandu’s finest heritage hotel. Built upon a rich tradition of Nepali hospitality and incorporating some of the country’s most exquisite architectural traditions, The Dwarika’s Hotel in Kathmandu is an authentic experience of Nepal’s ancient cultural heritage. With 87 meticulously designed rooms and suites, The Dwarika's Hotel Kathmandu offers a regal experience comparable to the royal suites of the 14th century Malla Kings of Nepal. Each room has been individually designed to immaculately mesh a contemporary lifestyle with a flavor of Newari motifs and stylistic living.

Beautiful gardens, a luxurious pool and spa and impeccable service make a stay at Dwarika’s very special.

Whilst on trek you will stay at traditional trekking lodges.

Trekking Lodge

Trekking Lodge

Trekking lodges, operated by your Sherpa hosts, offer simple but comfortable accommodation on trail. The lodges have a comfortable central living and eating room which is heated and individual twin share bedrooms. We will always try to accommodate you in twin share rooms wherever possible but occasionally we may have to accommodate you in dorm rooms depending on availability. Toilets and washing facilities are shared and hot showers may be available for an additional charge in some lodges. Food is simple but tasty and filling.

Meals

Kathmandu accommodation includes breakfast. A farewell dinner in Kathmandu is included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included while on trek as well as tea and coffee at meals. Food while on trek is simple but tasty. It does get more basic the higher you climb as fewer ingredients become available. Pancakes, bread and cereal form the basis for breakfast, lunch is normally a warming noodle soup at a convenient tea house on the trail and the evening staple dish while trekking is dal bhaat, this is a filling dish of lentil soup, rice and curried vegetables.

Time of Year & Availability

This trip is available to start on any day of the year from the end of September through to May. The most popular times to go trekking in Nepal are October/November, when the post monsoon mountain air is clear and fresh, and March to April when the weather is dry and pleasant and the rhododendrons bloom. You can start your trip on any date in the season.

Average daytime temperatures between October-November and April-May range from approximately 25c in Kathmandu to approx. 14c at 3000m, and approximately 3c at 5000m. From December through toApril, the temperatures will be about 5c lower. Night time temperatures are lower and willget to below freezing once above 3000m.

Single Rooms and Solo Walkers

Unfortunately this trip is not available to solo walkers, however if you do require single rooms within your party we would be happy to accommodate you, although there is a single room supplement payable.

Grade & Terrain

This holiday is graded strenuous, due to the extended length of time spent trekking at high altitudes. You should be in good physical fitness and have experience of multi day trekking or walking prior to undertaking an Everest Base Camp Trek. The effect of altitude should not be underestimated, The trails are generally well maintained and a good walking surface although the going can be rough once you reach the base of the Khumbu Glacier and on the final approach to Everest base Camp.

Altitude Sickness & Trekking at Altitude

Acute Mountain Sickness or Altitude Sickness is a major concern when trekking in Nepal and although our itinerary is designed to minimise the chances of you suffering from AMS each individual is affected differently by altitude. The majority of trekkers will suffer from at least mild altitude sickness.

Your leaders are all trained in dealing with AMS but your health is your responsibility and you should educate yourself on AMS. If you have any pre-existing health conditions that you think may make you more susceptible to AMS we recommend that you consult your doctor before booking this trip. You should also report any illness to your guide right away.

Your guide will carry a portable altitude chamber (PAC-bag) and/or oxygen for use in emergencies.

Meals

Kathmandu accommodation includes breakfast. A farewell dinner in Kathmandu is included. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are included while on trek as well as tea and coffee at meals. Food while on trek is simple but tasty. It does get more basic the higher you climb as fewer ingredients become available. Pancakes, bread and cereal form the basis for breakfast, lunch is normally a warming noodle soup at a convenient tea house on the trail and the evening staple dish while trekking is dal bhaat, this is a filling dish of lentil soup, rice and curried vegetables.

Equipment

While trekking you will only have to carry a day bag with water, snacks, spare clothes and your camera. Your main bag will be moved by a porter. We ask you to limit your luggage to one bag of up to 15kg per person. It is possible to store excess luggage at your hotel in Kathmandu. We will supply you with a detailed equipment list as part of your pre-departure information pack. You will need normal walking and travelling gear as well as a sleeping bag and warm clothes. Trekking equipment is available to hire in Kathmandu.

Your Guide & Porters

Quality guides make the difference between a great trip and an unforgettable experience. Our Nepali guides are qualified and trained. All have many years experience of guiding trekkers in Nepal, and speak fluent English. They bring a wealth of knowledge to your journey, opening your eyes to the legends, culture, food, flora and fauna of the Himalayas. Additionally they are first aid trained and fully trained and experienced in dealing with cases of Altitude Sickness. Your luggage will be transported by porters (1 porter between 2 people).

Air Travel in Nepal

Due to the nature of our treks in Nepal, access to the start point is often only possible by taking an internal flight. Flying in Nepal is an acknowledged risk due to the changeable nature of mountain weather and the fact that the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal does not operate to the same standards as those of the UK and other western nations. However, we have taken steps to ensure that our customers travelling to Nepal are as safe as they can possibly be by becoming stakeholders in an independent air audit of Nepal airlines undertaken by UK tour operators in 2015. This audit deemed several airlines as safe to fly to with including Yeti Airlines and Tara Air, and our itineraries will only include flights with these particular airlines. Tara and Yeti Airlines have also fulfilled the IATA Standard Safety Assessment (ISSA) which is a new global safety standard for commercial airlines operating smaller aircraft. Whilst we have taken the above steps, you should be aware that flying in mountainous areas like Nepal does carry with it a certain amount of risk. If you would like to find out further information on flying on Nepal and the associated risks, you can read advice on the UK Foreign Office Travel Advice page

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General Information:

The distances and ascents/descents are approximations of the recommended routes. Please be prepared by packing all necessary items, (for example, proper rain gear jacket and trousers, sun hat, sunscreen). Your information pack has a detailed equipment list which includes standard walking gear such as good walking boots or shoes, warm and waterproof clothes for the cooler months and lightweight clothing for summer, and a day pack.

Visa

Please be aware that you need a tourist visa for Nepal to enter. You can get this upon arrival at Kathmandu airport, where a few forms need to be filled out before you can go through customs. You will need to make sure you have the right amount of USD with you and two passport photos in order to obtain your visa. Alternatively Nepali embassies will also issue visas.

Flights to Kathmandu

Flights to Kathmandu are available daily from the UK and Europe via the Gulf or India. Airlines include Jet Airways, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways & Etihad Airways. Kathmandu is also very well served from North America and Australasia.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance which includes evacuation cover and covers trekking to the altitude of Everest Base Camp (5545m) is a requirement for this trip.

Flights to Kathmandu

Flights to Kathmandu are available daily from the UK and Europe via the Gulf or India. Airlines include Jet Airways, Gulf Air, Qatar Airways & Etihad Airways. Kathmandu is also very well served from North America and Australasia.

Included

All airport transfers

3 Nights superior accommodation on a twin share basis in Kathmandu

12 Nights twin share accommodation in standard lodges during the trek on full board basis

Extras

Additional nights in Kathmandu

Accommodation upgrade in Kathmandu

Additional nights on trek

Extension to Chitwan National Park

Single Supplement

How far in advance do I need to book?

We suggest you book as soon as your plans are finalised as the region is extremely popular especially over October/November and March/April. However, we will always try our best to accommodate your plans.

How fit do I need to be?

The Everest Base Camp is graded strenuous so you need to be relatively fit and have some experience of multi-day walking.

How is my baggage transported on trek?

Your bags will be transported on trek by local porters. We have a strict porter protection policy and, for this reason, we ask you to keep your baggage weight to a maximum of 15kgs per person. If you do want more luggage than this for your trip it is possible to leave items you will only want for Kathmandu at your hotel, thus helping to decrease the weight of the bag your are taking on trek.

What equipment do I need?

Your detailed information pack will be sent to you after you book. This has a detailed equipment list which includes standard trekking gear such as good walking shoes, warm and waterproof clothes and a day pack. Remember when you are staying in the trekking lodges you will need to have your own sleeping bag.

When is the best time of year?

The trekking season in the Everest region runs from mid-September to May. The most popular times are October/November, when the post monsoon mountain air is clear and fresh, and March to April when the weather is dry and pleasant and the rhododendrons bloom. Trekking is possible from December to February but it can be cold at night at high altitude.

Will I be affected by altitude sickness?

The affects of altitude vary between each individual; all our itineraries are designed to minimise the chances of you suffering from the symptoms of altitude sickness. We take rest days in order for your body to acclimatise, and our leaders are fully trained and experienced in dealing with issues related to altitude, should it affect you.

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Itinerary

DAY 1: Arrive Kathmandu
DAY 2: Flight to Lukla (2840m) and trek to Phakding (2610m)
DAY 3: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m)
DAY 4: Namche Bazaar Acclimatization Day
DAY 5: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)
DAY 6: Trek to Dingboche (4410m)
DAY 7: Acclimatization Day Trip to Chhukung Valley
DAY 8: Trek to Lobuche (4910m)
DAY 9: Lobuche to EBC (5364m) and return to Ghorak Shep (5140m)
DAY 10: Climb Kala Pattar (5550m) and Descend to Pheriche (4270m)
DAY 11: Trek to Tengboche (3860m)
DAY 12: Trek to Namche Bazaar (3440m)
DAY 13: Trek to Lukla (2840m)
DAY 14: Fly back to Kathmandu
DAY 15: Sightseeing in Kathmandu
Day 16: Onward Travel

Is this tour for me?

The trek to Everest Base Camp is one of the world’s classic treks and although challenging due to the high altitude it is achievable by anyone with determination and training. Lodges are comfortable with the exception of a few nights at higher elevations, when they are fairly basic.

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